An independent review led by former Fisheries Minister Richard Benyon, and published on World Ocean Day, is calling for the introduction of Highly Protected Marine Areas in English waters.
Key recommendations include: a “whole site approach” to protect all species and habitats within the HPMA boundaries; potential sites to be identified on the basis of ecological principles and ‘blue carbon’ habitats should be protected to help combat climate change.
Key to the report is a case study from the Lamlash Bay No-Take-Zone (NTZ), highlighting the work of COAST and the Arran community in maintaining an effective NTZ. Coastal Communities Network members are keen to see Scottish Ministers taking note of the Benyon Report and its recommendations.
Following the release of the report, COAST co-founder Howard Wood was invited to present & answer questions at the Blue Marine Foundation Rewilding the sea conference in June. A compilation of eight short films of marine restoration initiatives were shown during the event, to inspire delegates attending from all over the world.
We are delighted that COASTs 25-year project to protect the seas around Arran was one of the highlights of the day – showing that with Community support, partnership building and political will, Arran is now looked upon as a trailblazer working towards healthier seas.
Watch the Rewilding the Sea virtual Conference below.
See more of the conference at Blue Marine Foundation’s You Tube channel and find out more about COAST.